The administration announced a new immigration crackdown targeting travelers at U.S. airports for detention.
The administration announced a new immigration crackdown targeting travelers at U.S. airports for detention. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is now arresting foreign citizens with expired visas at check-in counters and gates, even those with pending asylum applications or valid work permits. This shift marks a new front in the administration's mass deportation campaign, moving beyond traditional warrants to use the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) data to identify illegal immigrants. At least 27 people have been arrested across 15 airports in recent weeks. For example, Iliana Noeli Lick was detained at Philadelphia International Airport while traveling to a soccer match. Immigration attorneys argue that this strategy is efficient because it allows ICE to target 'low-hanging fruit' without the need for a home visit or pre-deprivation hearing. While the administration noted that it reversed a 'horrendous Biden-era policy' that allowed illegal immigrants to fly freely, critics warn that travelers with uncertain status may want to consult an attorney before flying. The administration is currently working to ensure that illegal immigrants can no longer fly unless they are self-deporting.